Tuscany is renowned for its iconic landscapes, but tucked away in the heart of this picturesque region lie three hidden gems that captivate visitors. San Gimignano’s medieval towers, Volterra’s Etruscan heritage, and the Gothic San Galgano Abbey offer a chance to step back in time and take in the area’s rich history and architectural wonders. Discover the stories these destinations hold and why they’re worth exploring on your next Tuscan adventure.

Contents show

Key Points

A day trip from Florence exploring the hidden gems of Tuscany, including San Gimignano, Volterra, and San Galgano Abbey.
Travel by comfortable coach with an expert English-speaking leader and a small group size for personalized attention.
Discover the medieval town of San Gimignano, known for its 14 remaining towers, charming piazzas, and local Vernaccia wine.
Explore the Gothic-style ruins of the Cistercian San Galgano Abbey and learn about the legend of the sword in the stone.
Wander through the well-preserved medieval streets of Volterra, with its ancient Etruscan roots and impressive Etruscan Museum.

Tour Overview

This day trip from Florence takes travelers to three of Tuscany’s hidden gems: San Gimignano, Volterra, and San Galgano Abbey.

Guests will travel by coach, exploring the preserved towers and piazzas of San Gimignano, the Gothic-style San Galgano Abbey, and the walled medieval city of Volterra.

The small group tour includes an expert English-speaking leader and the entrance fee to San Galgano Abbey.

This small group tour features an expert English-speaking leader and includes the entrance fee to San Galgano Abbey.

Travelers will have free time at each location for personal exploration, though food and drink aren’t included.

The tour starts at 8 AM and returns to the meeting point, with the order of visits subject to change.

Looking for more options in Florence? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Travel by Coach

Travelers begin their day by boarding a fully fitted GT Coach for the roundtrip journey from Florence. The coach is equipped to ensure a comfortable ride, with ample legroom and storage space. The small group tour, limited to a maximum of 25 travelers, allows for a more personalized experience.

| Features | Benefits |

| — | — |

| Roundtrip Transport | Convenient door-to-door service |

| Fully Fitted Coach | Comfortable and spacious ride |

| Small Group Size | Personalized attention from the tour leader |

The expert English-speaking tour leader guides the group, providing valuable insights and ensuring a seamless experience throughout the day.

Exploring San Gimignano

After the comfortable coach journey, the group arrives in the well-preserved medieval town of San Gimignano.

Visitors explore the iconic skyline of San Gimignano’s 14 remaining medieval towers, which were once symbols of the town’s wealthy families. The group wanders through the charming piazzas, admiring the Gothic architecture and Renaissance-era art.

They can sample the local Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine and browse the artisan shops.

With free time allotted, travelers have the opportunity to climb the Torre Grossa for panoramic views over the Tuscan countryside or visit the Collegiate Church’s beautiful frescoes.

The Gothic-Style San Galgano Abbey

As the group departs from San Gimignano, they make their way to the striking Gothic-style San Galgano Abbey.

Originally a Cistercian monastery, the abbey’s ruined remains showcase its former grandeur. Visitors are awestruck by the crumbling stone arches and pillars rising towards the sky.

While the interior is open to the elements, the abbey’s atmosphere is palpable, transporting guests back to the medieval era. The group explores the abandoned monastery, marveling at its architectural details and the legend of the sword in the stone.

After soaking in the abbey’s tranquil ambiance, the tour continues to the walled city of Volterra.

Discovering Volterra

Having explored the captivating ruins of San Galgano Abbey, the tour group sets their sights on the walled medieval city of Volterra.

Wandering through the well-preserved medieval streets, they discover the ancient Etruscan roots of the city, evident in its impressive defensive walls and gates.

Highlights include the Piazza dei Priori, with its striking Palazzo dei Priori, and the Duomo, a Romanesque cathedral featuring intricate carvings.

The Piazza dei Priori, with its striking Palazzo dei Priori, and the Duomo, a Romanesque cathedral featuring intricate carvings, are highlights of Volterra.

Visitors can also explore the Museo Etrusco, housing an impressive collection of Etruscan artifacts.

With its stunning vistas and historic charm, Volterra offers a captivating glimpse into Tuscany’s rich past.

There's plenty more to explore in Florence

Inclusions and Transportation

This tour includes a roundtrip journey by fully fitted GT Coach. The small group size is capped at 25 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

An expert English-speaking tour leader accompanies the group, providing insights and guidance throughout the day.

The tour package includes:

Entrance fee to the stunning San Galgano Abbey.
Free time at each location for personal exploration.
Comfortable transportation to and from the meeting point.

Food and drink aren’t included, allowing guests to discover the local cuisine at their own pace.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Where does the tour start? The tour meets at Piazzale Montelungo in Florence.

Look for the staff in fuchsia jackets holding a clipboard at the kiosk located at the bus terminal, just 5-10 minutes from the Santa Maria Novella Train Station.

The tour ends by returning to the same meeting point. Pickup and drop-off details are straightforward – no need to worry about getting lost.

Be sure to arrive on time, as the tour departs promptly at 8:00 AM.

With a small group size of up to 25 travelers, you’ll receive personalized attention from the expert English-speaking tour leader.

Tour Schedule and Additional Information

The tour departs promptly at 8:00 AM, and you will receive confirmation of their booking.

Participants will receive booking confirmation as the tour departs promptly at 8:00 AM.

The order of visits may change, but the tour will cover three hidden gems in Tuscany: San Gimignano, Volterra, and San Galgano Abbey.

The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Additionally:

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.
Infants must sit on laps, as no separate seating is provided.
The tour is non-refundable, and cancellations won’t receive a refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not include food and drink. Travelers are welcome to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the free time at each location, but they won’t be provided as part of the tour.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

No, there doesn’t appear to be an option to upgrade to a private tour. The tour overview indicates it’s a small group tour with a maximum of 25 travelers, and there’s no mention of a private tour option.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

No, you don’t need to bring your own camera equipment. The tour includes exploration time at each location, allowing you to capture photos with your personal camera or smartphone during the free time.

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Preferences?

No, the tour cannot be customized to individual preferences. It’s a pre-set itinerary with a fixed schedule and inclusions. Travelers need to follow the tour as outlined, without the ability to modify the activities or timeline.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price is fixed, and there’s no flexibility to customize the itinerary or pricing. The tour is a set package with a maximum group size of 25 travelers.

The Sum Up

Tuscany’s hidden gems offer a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history and stunning architecture. San Gimignano’s medieval towers, Volterra’s Etruscan heritage, and the atmospheric San Galgano Abbey provide a tranquil experience amidst breathtaking scenery. This tour provides a comprehensive exploration of these remarkable destinations, allowing visitors to enjoy Tuscany’s cultural and natural wonders.